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BeeLine Uses Google Maps to Show Cyclists the Way

This innovative product we’re talking about is a handlebar-mounted device the size of a bigger timepiece that shows two things: direction and distance. A modern compass if you want, BeeLine merely points you in the general direction of your destination and tells you the distance to go, without any further instructions. Sounds like a fun way to commute, but does it help you find the right path through the city?
BeeLine Uses Google Maps to Show Cyclists the Way 7 photos
Photo: Kickstarter
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If you were to believe the two British innovators behind the Kickstarter project backing this gizmo, you’d think this contraption is the closest thing you get towards navigating fast and simple.

“You become more engaged in your journey and discover all kinds of hidden gems you would never find on the major (and often longer) routes. As you can never take a wrong turn, riding becomes completely stress-free.” Unless you end up in a bad neighborhood and you can’t find your way out, that is.

One of the arguments that allegedly make this gadget something cyclists need is the safety issue. Its creators claim that thanks to the liberty of choice to take turns that feel safe, when they feel safe and not one second before, commuting through the city somehow becomes more reliable than without it. Sure, you’re not looking for street names while focusing on traffic, but being confused about the road you just took a left on may come as a problem.

Regarding security and utility, BeeLine is quite easy to use. To set it up, the user simply snaps the device onto his/her bike, selects a destination in the free app using a smartphone, and that’s it. Since most cyclists have “frequently used” destinations, you can also save those for a one-tap service.

Worry not about the thing being stolen considering that, when not in use, the innovative design protects the screen so it can be thrown mainly anywhere or it can be attached to your key ring.

Concerning range, so to speak, BeeLine’s battery will last for 1-3 months of use between charges (based on 20-60 minutes of use every day). The gadget is currently on Kickstarter, but given that it’s already surpassed its goal, one should expect to see it on the market in the following months. Recommended Retail Price is planned to be £60 ($91.25 at the current exchange rate), but its creators claim they will try to lower that price if possible.

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